Lahore has once again been declared the most polluted city in the world, according to global air quality monitor IQAir. On Wednesday, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at a hazardous 341, down from Tuesday’s peak of 422, yet still the highest globally. Following Lahore were New Delhi (232), Beijing (222), Kinshasa and Kathmandu (155 each), and Karachi (140).
The Punjab government has issued a high alert, revising school timings to 8:35 a.m. and launching extensive anti-smog operations through the Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC), involving 16 mechanical washers, 50 regular washers, and 400 workers for road cleaning and water sprinkling.
Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb commended Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s environmental initiatives, stating they reflect “a vision to improve Punjab’s environment.” She expressed optimism that Lahore could follow Beijing’s path of environmental recovery.
According to Suparco, the province’s environmental violations scored 294 this year, prompting action against industrial plants contributing to air pollution.
